Honduras faces corruption fears after US extradition treaty ends

Honduras is grappling with renewed fears of corruption following the recent admission by Carlos Zelaya, the brother-in-law of President Xiomara Castro, regarding his past meeting with a drug trafficking leader. This revelation comes shortly after the country announced the termination of its extradition treaty with the United States, raising concerns about the persistence of corrupt practices in the government. Castro, who was elected in 2021 with promises to combat corruption and improve the nation’s situation, is now facing significant disillusionment among the populace. The admission by Zelaya, who is part of the leadership team of Castro's Liberty and Refoundation Party (Libre), has sparked outrage and skepticism about the integrity of the current administration. He claimed he was unaware of the drug trafficker's connections at the time of the meeting in 2013, which was intended to support Libre's campaign. This incident has led to questions about the party's commitment to eradicating corruption, especially in light of the previous administration's ties to drug trafficking. As gang violence and economic instability continue to plague the nation, the public's frustration is mounting. The recent scandals have overshadowed the initial optimism surrounding Castro's presidency, with many now viewing her as part of the corrupt political landscape she vowed to change. The situation is further complicated by high unemployment rates and ongoing violence, which have exacerbated public discontent. In response to the growing criticism, Castro has made changes in her cabinet, including the resignation of her nephew, the Defense Minister, to avoid any appearance of favoritism. These developments could significantly impact the upcoming elections, as the credibility of Castro's administration is increasingly questioned by the electorate.